Aycliffe entrepreneur pays tribute to university studies

Aspiring Aycliffe entrepreneur Jonathan Hutton has attributed much of his success of launching two businesses to studying at Teesside University.

Jonathan (above left), from Aycliffe Village, and his business partner Ryan Prior graduated from the BA (Hons) Business Management at the university last summer.

They no run two successful businesses – digital marketing and website design service Globe Digital, while Mello Cleaning caters for clients closer to home.

The pair launched Mello during the final year of their studies, after spotting a gap in the way many cleaning businesses were promoting their services.

Jonathan, 21, said: “I liked that the degree was really hands-on with plenty of networking opportunities. We were taught by people who have actually worked in business and bring their own personal experience.

“I didn’t have a clear career path when I was younger, but the business management degree really helped to offer direction as it provides students with the skills needed to take their career along many different routes. The placements and networking opportunities are brilliant.”

Ryan, 21, of Ingleby Barwick, added: “There are a lot of cleaning businesses, but few offer basics such as online bookings and payment through their websites.

“It’s a simple idea, which we have been able to leverage by drawing from our online marketing knowledge and expertise.”

Having set up Mello while still students as their business evolved from a degree project, they founded Globe Digital after both graduating earlier this year.

Jonathan added: “We developed Mello during the degree and now have a small and growing team. We launched Globe just as we were completing the degree and now have clients across the world, including the United States and Europe.”

The deadline for UCAS applications is fast approaching and for students considering coming to Teesside, now is the time to make your choice.